George Friend is hoping a small procedure can help the defender return to action after having troubles with a thigh injury for a number of months.

The defender found himself injured at the back end of last season having damaged his adductor tendons in a fixture at Swansea in April. Since then, he hasn't been back to himself and has failed to have a proper pre-season under his belt.

The 31-year-old made his first appearance of the season against Crewe in the Carabao Cup but in his first league game against Blackburn he was taken off with just seven minutes left in the ninety.

Speaking to Teesside Live at the MFC Foundation's East Cleveland launch in Loftus, Friend said: "I'm still not quite right, I need a little bit longer to recover. I was hoping to be back around this time, the international break. I'm having a small procedure next week to clear up a bit of scar tissue.

"That should stand me in good stead to be ready for the rest of the season. Time frame, I'm not quite sure yet so I can't say anything on that but I think that will clear it up and get me on the right track." The Verdict Friend will be hoping that he can get back to his best as quick as possible, having been out for such a long period of time. It's a shame, as for a full-back in the Championship he is one of the best and has great ability to be able to support the attack, whilst at the same time helping out the defence. I'm sure that Woodgate will also be wanting to see how a fully recovered Friend can fit into his side and whether he can be a crucial player once more for Boro this season. After a rather stale start, this surgery may be important for not just Friend, but for Middlesbrough as well, as they look to kick start their season after the international break.